Wilderness Coast - Itinerary 4

Kestrels and red deer around Simonsbath and Exford

Morning

This day out offers a chance to rest your legs and explore Exmoor National Park. Drive, if you have a car. Otherwise, arrange a few journeys to key destinations with the Moor Rover. Take the steep road (9.5 miles/15.2km) from Lynton to Simonsbath, a small village on the River Barle at the heart of Exmoor. Even from the road, the landscape here is nothing short of spectacular. Watch out for local wildlife including moorland ponies, foxes, hares and birds of prey including kestrels, buzzards and kites.

Aftenoon

When it comes to wildlife, Exmoor is best known for its large population of red deer. The best way to see these animals in the wild is to join a red deer safari. You can see deer all year round, but the most dramatic time to visit is in the autumn. This is the rutting season when majestic stags with huge antlers go head-to-head in battle. After your encounter with wildlife, continue to other noteworthy villages such as Exford, Wheddon Cross and Winsford, all of which have traditional moorland pubs and hotels serving great food and beers. While here, be sure to sample the excellent Exmoor Ales.